Illicit financial flows (IFFs), as captured in Target 16.4 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), have been identified as a major problem facing developing economies, particularly in Africa, leading to abject poverty and widening income inequality. The result is a heavy reliance on aid. Although a matter of international concern, its implications are often viewed solely through a socio-economic lens. This thesis highlights the international law dimension of the phenomenon by presenting IFFs as infringements of the right to development and of economic, social, and cultural rights, and as such violations of international law. Remedies under international law suitable for addressing IFFs are then critically evaluated. This represents a paradigm shift from the mainstream understanding of the phenomenon as an economic and developmental issue. Ultimately, the research aims to position international law as a means of curbing IFFs from Africa.
